As you bashfully smile,
you extend both arms
and wiggle your fingers:
your welcoming wave
is a gentle greeting to
the pilgrims at St. Peter’s.
A prudent theologian,
you write the most
eloquent of encyclicals;
as a classical pianist,
you wisely speak about
true beauty and true art.
In your own quiet way
you shepherd the flock,
for you’re a very holy man;
you’re an obedient son,
a simple man of Love,
a humble genius.